There is power in a photograph. With the right blend of timing, lighting and composition, a photo can immortalize a fleeting moment. At best, a photo can elicit emotion and offer a glimpse of the true essence of a place.

In its efforts to market Washington, the Washington Tourism Development Authority is now welcoming submissions for its 2020 photo contest through Feb. 28, seeking images that “illustrate the lifestyle, beauty and assets of Washington.”

The 2020 contest marks the fourth competition held by the WTDA in recent years, and serves a twofold purpose. On the one hand, it serves to get Washington residents excited about their hometown and offers a chance to show their vision of the community.

“We’ve had a tremendous response to our past three photo contests,” wrote WTDA Director Erin Ruyle. “It’s evident that the local community loves Washington by the outpouring of photos we have received showcasing Washington’s assets. We love seeing the community from the local eyes and each photo really tells a different and unique story. One of the photos from last year’s contest was even selected for the cover of this year’s Welcome Guide.”

The second, and perhaps equally important, purpose is that each contest helps the WTDA grow an ever-expanding library of images it can use to help attract new visitors to Washington.

“One of the primary reasons we have hosted these photo contests is to build our digital media library to enhance our marketing efforts both across the state and country,” Ruyle said. “Photos submitted into our contest have been used on our social media channels, in our monthly newsletter and on our website, but they have also been used in our marketing campaigns with Visit North Carolina, Our State Magazine, WRAL and East Carolina University Athletics, among others. The reach these photos have had across the state has been impressive.”

For this year’s competition, there are four categories:

• Nature and outdoors — Scenic shots of Washington’s parks, waterways and wildlife from any time of year.
• Adventure and recreation — Action shots of people of all ages participating in outdoor activities: kayaking, playing, biking, hiking, fishing, boating, camping, bird watching, etc.
• Pets and their people — Photos must show one or more people, one or more pets or a combination of people and pets enjoying Washington.
• Culinary delights — Photos can be taken in Washington restaurants, strolling while noshing downtown or on the boardwalk, or picnicking. Photos from local farmers and seafood markets, cooking events, classes and cocktails from local restaurants are included in this category, as well.

Top prizes for each category are $250 for first place and $100 for second place, with opportunities to have winning photos featured on the WTDA website and social media. Winners will be announced by March 6.

For a full list of contest rules and submission instructions, visit www.visitwashingtonnc.com/2020-washington-nc-photo-contest/.